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Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key If you lose your car key, you need to understand the various costs associated with. You can get a copy of a basic car key at any hardware store, but the smart key could require you to visit a locksmith or dealer. There are ways to save money on your device if it is only damaged and is not in need of reprogramming. 1. Key Type Car keys have a strange ability to disappear into unexpected places. They can be hard to locate, whether they slip out of your purse when you're out shopping, get stuck between the sofa cushions or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could simply pop into your local auto locksmith or hardware store to purchase a replacement. It's expensive to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you have an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. car key replacements or remote transmitters that are used with these systems are tiny electronic devices, and they're packed with circuitry that could cause them to be expensive to replace in the event that you lose them. It is recommended to consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy which covers up to 400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically cover just a fraction of total replacement costs and include unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys, in addition to other benefits such as towing and roadside assistance. The type of key you're using can also affect the price and some keys are more costly to replace than others. For instance, simple metal keys that don't have a key fob are quite affordable, because they're mechanical, and can be easily replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your key has transponders, you'll require special equipment to duplicate it. These machines are available from car manufacturers or dealerships and could be a major factor in the cost. Laser cut keys can increase the cost of the replacement key for cars, since they are more substantial. They are made of metal that is then molded to the desired shape and then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a precise fit. 2. Key Fob Losing keys to your car used to be a minor issue. A locksmith or car dealer could offer you a new key, which was probably relatively affordable. As cars have become more technologically advanced, so have their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more costly. In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized as a way to lock and unlock the vehicle without requiring a physical car key. These small plastic fobs have a button which, when pressed by the user, communicates to the computer in the onboard system to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some include a button that allows you to activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk. A locksmith for cars can cut a key without a remote at a small charge. This is similar to keys produced prior to 1990. Some locksmiths can even repair the fob that was lost while you wait. It is more costly to replace a fob that contains a transponder or computer chip as opposed to an ordinary one. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost up to $200 and are only available through the original dealer of the car. Many companies that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops or dealerships could end up with lots of spare fobs. Some are available to consumers, while others require specialized equipment or technical expertise to program. This isn't something that the average person could do. This is why it's always best to keep a spare car key in your pocket or purse, and then add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you require it. 3. Laser Cut Keys Keys Laser-cut keys have deeper ridges unlike mechanical keys. They make them harder for car thieves to duplicate. Key blades feature two slits that permit the key to be put in the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are the most popular kind of car keys that are in circulation today. They are more popular than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they provide a higher level of security and comfort. It is crucial that the company cutting the keys is equipped with the right equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that does not function properly. You should also consider the quality of the knife since a poor quality knife could cause damage to your key cutting machine or even cause it to break within the ignition cylinder. To cut a laser-cut keys locksmiths require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they will run the data through a computer in order to determine the specifications of your car. They then utilize the CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications. They are usually only available through dealers. However, they are much less costly than traditional key fobs, and have the added bonus of being extremely difficult to duplicate. For a typical all-in-one laser cut key you'll have to pay between $150 and $250 in labor costs. This is because these types of key need to be programmed by the dealership. They are still one of the most convenient and secure keys for cars available today. 4. Switchblade Keys Modern cars often use key fobs that are able to lock and unlock doors and start the engine. These aren't mechanical keys that can be easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology integrated into. The chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These keys can be more expensive. They range from $50-$100 in the basic model, and up to $200 for models with push-to-start functions. Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade key, which folds up when not in use. generally cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, which can be released at the touch of a button whenever needed. They are much more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great choice for those who require an additional key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys varies from $100 to $300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type. Contrary to the crank key, which was difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle keys that are electronic are lightweight and more convenient. These car keys also make it difficult for thieves to steal them, as they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key-duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car key. Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without having to take them out of their pockets. The process of changing these kinds of keys for cars could be costly and usually require a visit to the dealer which may or not include a towing fee. 5. Transponder Keys In contrast to mechanical keys, transponder keys contain a chip within them that transmits a radio frequency signal to the car when it is put into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle reads the signal to determine whether the serial number is identical to the one on the key. If it matches, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and start the engine. The purpose behind this is to stop car theft by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and then start the engine. Theoretically, this technology is effective However, car thieves who are smart always find ways to beat it. Furthermore, the chips inside these types of keys aren't as long-lasting as many would like to believe. They are easily cleaned out, which could result in the key not working. The cost of replacing transponder keys can be expensive. The key blank itself can cost up to $50, and then there's the added expense of having it programmed. This procedure requires an exclusive machine that is only available at car dealerships. It is recommended to employ locksmiths who have the proper equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to keep all of the details of your vehicle in order, including the year and make, as well as the model. This will help ensure that the correct key blank is used, which can save you money in the long run. A locksmith can typically program a new transponder key for around $150, but it can cost up to $180 for push-to-start cars equipped with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a special programming service that can be done only by a locksmith who is certified.